JP2012079319A - System and method for utilizing morphing procedure in information distribution network - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a system and method for utilizing a morphing procedure in an information distribution network.SOLUTION: A system and method for implementing an information distribution network includes an information service that is configured to provide information distribution services through the information distribution network. User devices are utilized by device users to communicate with the information service for receiving the information distribution services. Transport structures are implemented for communicating with various network entities in the information distribution network to collect appropriate metadata for targeting selected information to the device users. The transport structures automatically and dynamically perform morphing procedures during which the transport structures are sequentially attached to a plurality of host entities on a one-by-one basis for collecting corresponding metadata.

Description

  The present invention relates generally to techniques for distributing electronic information, and more specifically to systems and methods for utilizing morphing procedures in an information distribution network.

  Implementing an effective method for distributing electronic information is an important consideration for designers and manufacturers of modern electronic systems. However, effectively distributing the electronic information used by the electronic device may cause many problems for the system designer. For example, increasing demands for additional system functionality and performance may require greater system processing power and may require additional software resources. Increasing processing or software requirements can result in increased production costs and management inefficiencies, with a corresponding adverse economic impact.

  In addition, increased system capabilities to perform various advanced delivery operations may provide additional benefits to system users, but may place additional demands on the control and management of various system components. There is also sex. For example, an electronic system that effectively manages electronic advertising information can benefit from effective implementation because the amount of required digital data is large and complex.

  As a result of the increased demand for system resources and the massive increase in data size, developing new technologies for distributing electronic information to electronic devices is a concern for the related electronic technologies. it is obvious. Thus, for all the reasons mentioned above, developing effective techniques for distributing electronic information remains an important consideration for designers, manufacturers and users of modern electronic systems. Yes.

  In accordance with the present invention, a system and method for utilizing a morphing procedure in an information distribution network is disclosed. In one embodiment, the distribution system automatically provides various types of information suitable for use by device users of corresponding user devices. For example, the information delivered can include, but is not limited to, commercial advertising information targeted to a specific device user. Unlike traditional advertising technologies that support “pull” models that require consumers to actively access the desired advertising information, the delivery system described above defined both device users and various advertisers. Supports a “push” model that automatically selects the appropriate advertising information based on the corresponding metadata and sends it to the target device user.

  In one embodiment, the distribution system supports and utilizes one or more transport structures that automatically transmit various types of related information to and from appropriate entities in the distribution system. Can do. For example, using this transport structure, metadata about various device users, user devices, various services, and respective advertisers can be collected and transferred from the information service. This transport structure can also be used to provide targeted advertisements and / or links to electronic content to appropriate user devices.

  In accordance with the present invention, a transport structure can be coupled to a specified host entity to collect metadata about this host. The present invention advantageously supports a morphing procedure in which a combined transport structure dynamically and automatically rejoins a new host according to a predetermined instruction from an appropriate instruction source.

  In some embodiments, the source entity can first create a transport structure by utilizing any effective generation technique. The transport structure can be programmed with specific TS instructions in any effective way. For example, in some embodiments, the TS manager of the transport server can provide binding instructions, task instructions, navigation instructions, and timing instructions to effectively control the transport structure.

  A transport server or other suitable entity deploys the transport structure within the information distribution network. For example, in some embodiments, the transport structure can be originally incorporated within one or more user devices. Alternatively, the transport structure can be transmitted to one or more user equipment or other specified entities via an information distribution network. For example, in some embodiments, while the transport structure is coupled to a corresponding advertisement or other type of electronic information, it may be sent to the appropriate user equipment (or other target destination). it can.

  A transport structure TS instruction is read to determine the appropriate function for this particular transport structure. The transport structure automatically binds to the appropriate host entity according to the TS command. A host entity can include, but is not limited to, an actual user device, a device application, or a specific service program. The transport structure then collects appropriate metadata about the host entity and sends it to the transport server (or other metadata destination) in order to more accurately target future advertisements.

  The transport structure periodically determines whether a morphing procedure is currently required by the TS instruction according to the TS instruction. If no morphing procedure is currently required, the transport structure continues to collect and send appropriate metadata about the host entity. On the other hand, if the transport structure determines that a morphing procedure is currently required by the TS command, the transport structure automatically and dynamically rejoins the new host entity as specified by the TS command. To do. The transport structure then advantageously collects and transmits the appropriate metadata about this new host entity in order to more accurately target future advertisements. Thus, at least for the reasons described above, the present invention provides an improved system and method for utilizing a morphing procedure in an information distribution network.

1 is a block diagram of a distribution system according to one embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a block diagram illustrating one embodiment of a transport structure according to the present invention. FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a media file according to the present invention. 2B is a block diagram of one embodiment of the TS instruction of FIG. 2A in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 2B is a block diagram of one embodiment of the metadata of FIG. 2A in accordance with the present invention. FIG. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating one embodiment of the user equipment of FIG. 1 according to the present invention. FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating one embodiment of the user memory of FIG. 3 in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating one embodiment of the information service of FIG. 1 according to the present invention. FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating one embodiment of the transport server of FIG. 5 in accordance with the present invention. 6B is a block diagram illustrating one embodiment of the server memory of FIG. 6A in accordance with the present invention. FIG. FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating one embodiment of the advertisement server of FIG. 5 in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of method steps for performing a morphing procedure according to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of method steps for performing a morphing procedure according to one embodiment of the invention.

  The present invention relates to an improvement in electronic data distribution technology. The following description is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the invention and is provided in the context of a patent application and its requirements. Various modifications to the disclosed embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art and the general principles herein may be applied to other embodiments. Accordingly, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features described herein.

  The present invention includes a system and method for realizing an information distribution network, and includes an information service configured to provide an information distribution service via the information distribution network. A device user uses a user device to communicate with an information service to receive an information distribution service. A transport structure is implemented to communicate with various network entities in the information distribution network to collect appropriate metadata for targeting selected information to device users. The transport structure automatically and dynamically implements a morphing procedure that continuously couples the transport structure to multiple entities one by one to collect corresponding metadata.

  Referring now to FIG. 1, a block diagram of a distribution system 110 according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, distribution system 110 may include one or more user devices 122, information services 118, and network 126, but are not limited to the following. In alternative embodiments, the distribution system 110 can be implemented by utilizing components and configurations in addition to or in place of some of the components and configurations described in connection with the embodiment of FIG. .

  According to the present invention, the distribution system 110 advantageously supports a distribution procedure that automatically provides various types of information suitable for use by the device user of the corresponding user device 122. For example, the distributed information may include, but is not limited to, commercial advertisement information that specifically targets an appropriate device user of user device 122. Unlike conventional advertising technologies that support a “pull” model that requires consumers to actively access the desired advertising information, the distribution system 110 of FIG. 1 includes device users, user devices, and various advertisements. Supports a “push” model in which appropriate advertising information is automatically selected and transmitted to the target device user based on corresponding metadata defining the main.

  In the embodiment of FIG. 1, distribution system 110 can be implemented and supported by a distribution control entity that provides distribution services to advertisers and device users in exchange for monetary or other consideration. The distribution control entity may be a commercial company that holds and controls key elements of the distribution system 110 such as the information service 118 or the user device 122.

  In accordance with the present invention, the distribution system 110 automatically collects and transmits various types of related information with appropriate entities within the distribution system 110 (FIG. 2A). Have the advantage that it can be used with support. For example, a transport structure can be utilized to collect and transfer metadata about various device users, user devices 122, networks 126, and their respective advertisers and their advertisements from the information service 118. The transport structure can also be utilized to transmit or provide a link to the targeted advertisement and / or electronic content for access by the appropriate user device 122.

  In accordance with the present invention, a transport structure can first bind to a designated host entity to collect metadata about this host. The present invention advantageously supports a morphing procedure in which a combined transport structure dynamically and automatically rejoins a new host according to a predetermined instruction from an appropriate instruction source. Accordingly, the present invention provides an improved system and method for effectively implementing a morphing procedure in an information distribution network. Hereinafter, further details regarding the implementation and use of the distribution system 110 of FIG. 1 will be described in connection with FIGS. 2A-8B.

  Referring now to FIG. 2A, a block diagram of one embodiment of a transport structure 210 according to the present invention is shown. The embodiment of FIG. 2A is shown for illustrative purposes, and in an alternative embodiment, components and configurations in addition to or instead of some of the components and configurations described in connection with the embodiment of FIG. 2A. Can be used to realize the transport structure 210.

  In the embodiment of FIG. 2A, the transport structure (TS) controller 212 may include any suitable type of information or instructions for providing intelligent functions and control for the transport structure. In the embodiment of FIG. 2A, the TS controller 212 can be coupled to a suitable host entity according to transport structure (TS) instructions 214 provided by any suitable instruction source. In some embodiments, the TS controller 220 and TS instructions 214 may interact with an external entity such as a user device 122 processor, or the external entities may execute the TS controller 220 and TS instructions 214. Additional details regarding one embodiment of the TS instruction 214 are described further below in connection with FIG. 2C.

  In the embodiment of FIG. 2A, metadata 216 may include any type of collected modifiable information regarding any related entity coupled to distribution system 110. Additional details regarding one embodiment of metadata 216 are further described below in connection with FIG. 2D. In some embodiments, the transport structure 210 collects metadata 216 regarding the particular host entity to which the transport structure 210 is currently associated. A host entity can be any particular type of component, device, software module, or other entity. For example, in the embodiment of FIG. 2A, host entities can include, but are not limited to, user device 122 (FIG. 1), device application 422, and service program 450 (see FIG. 4). . In the embodiment of FIG. 2A, miscellaneous information 218 may include any additional data or other necessary information. Media link 220 may include appropriate information to indicate a location or connection means for accessing one or more media files, as described below in connection with FIG. 2B.

  The transport structure 210 can be created in any effective manner from any suitable source. For example, the transport structure 210 can be incorporated into the user device 122 (FIG. 1) so that the device user can activate it as needed. Alternatively, various entities in network 126 or information service 118 can create or activate transport structure 210. For example, a transport server (see FIG. 6A) can manage the creation and operation of the transport structure 210. In some embodiments, transport structure 210 may be transmitted to user device 122 via various advertisements. In the following, further details regarding the implementation and use of the transport structure 210 of FIG. 2A will be described in connection with FIGS. 2B-8B.

  Referring now to FIG. 2B, a block diagram of one embodiment of a media file 250 according to the present invention is shown. The embodiment of FIG. 2B is shown for illustrative purposes, and in an alternative embodiment, components and configurations in addition to or in place of some of the components and configurations described in connection with the embodiment of FIG. 2B. The media file 250 can be realized by using. For example, the media file 250 of FIG. 2B is shown as a separate entity that can be accessed by utilizing the media link 246 of FIG. 2A. However, in an alternative embodiment, the media file 250 can be implemented integrally with the transport structure 210 of FIG. 2A.

  In the embodiment of FIG. 2B, advertisements (ads) 254 may include any suitable type of targeted advertising information selected for transmission to the appropriate user device of user devices 122 (FIG. 1). it can. Similarly, the content item 258 can include any suitable type of electronic content information selected for transmission to an appropriate user device of the user devices 122. For example, the content 258 can include, but is not limited to, video data, audio data, graphics, text, movies, music recordings, and computer programs. In the following, further information for providing the appropriate media file 250 to the target device user will be further described in connection with FIGS.

  Referring now to FIG. 2C, a block diagram of one embodiment of the TS instruction 214 of FIG. 2A according to the present invention is shown. The embodiment of FIG. 2C is shown for illustrative purposes, and in an alternative embodiment, in addition to or in place of some of the components, functions and configurations described in connection with the embodiment of FIG. 2C. The TS command 214 can be realized by using the function and configuration.

  In the embodiment of FIG. 2C, the TS instruction 214 can be created in any effective manner. For example, in one embodiment, the TS instruction 214 can be created by the TS manager 648 of the transport server (FIG. 6A) or any other suitable entity. Also, the TS instruction 214 can be changed or updated at any desired time. In the embodiment of FIG. 2C, the join instruction 260 provides specific instructions for binding to one or more host entities to collect the metadata 216 (FIG. 2A) with which the transport structure 210 is associated. The join instruction 260 may also include information to support a morphing procedure that the transport structure 210 rejoins to a different host entity to collect the corresponding metadata 216.

  In the embodiment of FIG. 2C, task instructions 264 may include any suitable instruction or other information that indicates a particular task, operation, function, or step for transport structure 210 to perform. For example, in some embodiments, task instructions 264 may include detailed instructions that describe the type of information that transport structure 210 is directed to collect and / or distribute. In the embodiment of FIG. 2C, the navigation instructions 268 may include any suitable instruction or other information that provides specific navigation instructions or restrictions to the transport structure 210. For example, in some embodiments, the navigation instructions 268 can define at least one navigation path defined by one or more starting points and one or more destination points.

  In the embodiment of FIG. 2C, the timing instruction 272 details the combined time that the transport structure 210 is instructed to combine with one or more host entities to collect the associated metadata 216 (FIG. 2A). Instructions can be given to direct. The timing instruction 272 also includes information that the transport structure 210 uses with the join instruction 260 to support a morphing procedure that rejoins to a different host entity at a particular time to collect the corresponding metadata 216. Can do.

  In the embodiment of FIG. 2C, miscellaneous instructions 276 can include any additional instructions or other suitable information for controlling the operation of transport structure 210. In the following, further details regarding the creation and use of TS instructions 214 will be further described in connection with FIGS. 2D-8B.

  Referring now to FIG. 2D, a block diagram of one embodiment of the metadata 216 of FIG. 2A in accordance with the present invention is shown. In the embodiment of FIG. 2D, various categories of metadata 216 represent various potential binding dimensions of host entities that transport structure 210 (FIG. 2A) can combine. The embodiment of FIG. 2D is shown for illustrative purposes, and in an alternative embodiment, in addition to or in place of some of the components, functions and configurations described in connection with the embodiment of FIG. 2D. The metadata 216 can be realized by using functions and configurations.

  In the embodiment of FIG. 2D, user metadata 222 may include information regarding one or more device users of user device 122 (FIG. 1). User metadata 222 may include any desired type of information. For example, user metadata 222 may include past and current user behavior such as, but not limited to, purchase transactions and Internet browsing patterns. In some embodiments, user metadata 222 may also include information selectively created from one or more suitable user profiles 430 (FIG. 4).

  Similarly, device metadata 226 may include any desired type of information regarding one or more user devices 122. For example, the device metadata 226 can include, but is not limited to, specific functions and features of the corresponding user device 122. In some embodiments, device metadata 226 can be selectively created from one or more suitable device profiles 434 (FIG. 4). In the embodiment of FIG. 2A, application metadata 230 may include any desired type of information regarding various attributes or functions of one or more device applications 422 (see FIG. 4) of user device 122.

  In the embodiment of FIG. 2D, the advertisement metadata 234 can include any desired type of information regarding one or more advertisers and advertisements associated with the distribution system 110. In some embodiments, the advertisement can be associated with an advertisement source 540 (FIG. 5). In the embodiment of FIG. 5, the advertisement metadata 234 may include advertisement features or functions related to the corresponding advertisement. For example, advertisement features can include, but are not limited to, product type, advertisement display history, advertisement format, advertisement length, and advertisement media type.

  In the embodiment of FIG. 2D, service metadata 238 may include any desired type of information regarding one or more network services or service programs 450 (FIG. 4). Such a service program 450 can include any desired type of functionality that provides services to device users through corresponding user devices 122. For example, the service program 450 includes, but is not limited to, a mobile phone service provider, an Internet service provider, a paid content provider service, a core communication service, a network map service, a global positioning service, an Internet search service, and Wireless communication services can be included. In the embodiment of FIG. 2D, miscellaneous information 242 can include any additional data or other suitable information.

  Various entities within distribution system 110 may utilize metadata 216 collected by transport structure 210 in any suitable manner. For example, according to the present invention, an advertisement selector (see FIG. 6B) identifies corresponding elements of user metadata 222, device metadata 226, advertisement metadata 234, and / or service metadata 238. By matching, an advertisement selection procedure can be implemented by identifying relevant advertisement information of a type suitable for automatic transmission to the target device user. In the following, further information and details regarding the creation and use of metadata 216 will be further described in connection with FIGS. 3-8B.

  Referring now to FIG. 3, a block diagram of one embodiment of the user device 122 of FIG. 1 according to the present invention is shown. In the embodiment of FIG. 3, the user equipment 122 includes, but is not limited to, a central processing unit (CPU) 314, a memory 318, a display 338, a global positioning system (GPS) module 344, 1 Or more (single) input / output interfaces (single) I / O interfaces 340.

  The embodiment of FIG. 3 is shown for illustrative purposes, and in an alternative embodiment, in addition to or instead of some of the components and configurations described in connection with the embodiment of FIG. Can be used to implement the user device 122. User device 122 may also be any type of portable or non-portable including but not limited to desktop computers, personal digital assistants, digital cameras, mobile phones, set-top boxes, or laptop computers. It can also be realized as a simple electronic device.

  In the embodiment of FIG. 3, controlling and managing the operation of user device 122 by implementing CPU 314, preferably including any suitable and compatible microprocessor device that executes software instructions. Can do. The display 338 of FIG. 3 can include any effective type of display technology including a cathode ray tube monitor or liquid crystal display device with a screen suitable for displaying various information to the device user. In the embodiment of FIG. 3, the I / O interface (s) 340 may include one or more input and / or output interfaces for the user equipment 122 to receive and / or transmit any required type of information. Can be included.

  In the embodiment of FIG. 3, various types of non-volatile such as, but not limited to, read only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), and floppy disk, memory stick, compact disk, or hard disk. The memory 318 can be implemented to include any combination of desired storage devices including a volatile memory. In the embodiment of FIG. 3, user device 122 utilizes GPS module 344 for performing any known or expanded device location procedure to provide location coordinates corresponding to user device 122. be able to. Additional details regarding the use of the user device 122 are further described below in connection with FIGS. 4-8B.

  Referring now to FIG. 4, a block diagram of one embodiment of the user memory 318 of FIG. 3 according to the present invention is shown. In an alternative embodiment, user memory 318 can be implemented by utilizing components and configurations in addition to, or instead of, some of the components and configurations described in connection with the embodiment of FIG. .

  In the embodiment of FIG. 4, the device application 422 may include program instructions that are preferably executed by the CPU 314 to perform various functions and operations for the user device 122. Typically, the specific characteristics and functions of the device application 422 depend on factors such as the specific type and specific function of the corresponding user device 122. In some embodiments, device application 422 may function as a host entity that transport structure 210 combines to monitor and record corresponding metadata 216. In the embodiment of FIG. 4, the operating system 426 preferably controls and coordinates the lower level functions of the user device 122. In some embodiments, operating system 426 may function as a host entity that transport structure 210 combines to monitor and record corresponding metadata 216 for user device 122.

  In the embodiment of FIG. 4, the user device 122 may include a user profile 430 and a device profile 434 that collectively describe several attributes or features relating to the user device 122 or the device user of the user device 122. For example, the user profile 430 may include, but is not limited to, the device user's name, gender, age, religion, hobby, interest, occupation, marriage history, address, income, internet browsing history, geographical location, credit Information about card transaction records and user preferences may be included. Similarly, device profile 434 may include, but is not limited to, device type, device manufacturer, past and current device location, supported device capabilities, and device configuration. it can. In the embodiment of FIG. 4, advertisements (ads) 442 may include targeted advertisement information specific to the device user of user device 122 that is received via distribution system 110 (FIG. 1). Similarly, content 446 may include target electronic content information specific to the device user of user device 122 that is received via distribution system 110 (FIG. 1).

  In the embodiment of FIG. 4, service program (s) 450 may include any desired type of functionality that provides services to device users through corresponding user devices 122, but is not limited to the following. . For example, the service program 450 includes, but is not limited to, a mobile phone service provider, an Internet service provider, a paid content provider service, a core communication service, a network map service, a global positioning service, an Internet search service, and Wireless communication services can be included. In some embodiments, any of the service programs 450 can function as a host entity that the transport structure 210 combines to monitor and record the corresponding metadata 216. In the embodiment of FIG. 4, miscellaneous information 454 may include any additional data or other suitable information. In the following, further details regarding the implementation and use of the user memory 318 of FIG. 4 will be described in connection with FIGS.

  Referring now to FIG. 5, a block diagram of one embodiment of the information service 118 of FIG. 1 according to the present invention is shown. In the embodiment of FIG. 5, the information service 118 includes, but is not limited to, a controller 514, a transport server 518, an advertisement server 538, one or more advertisement sources 540, and one or more. The above content source 542 is included. The embodiment of FIG. 5 is shown for illustrative purposes, and in an alternative embodiment, in addition to or in place of some of the components and configurations described in connection with the embodiment of FIG. Can be used to implement the information service 118.

  In the embodiment of FIG. 5, the controller 514 can be implemented to include any effective control means for adjusting the operational functions of the information service 118. For example, in some embodiments, the controller 514 can be implemented as a computer device that includes a corresponding control application program that manages the operation of the information service 118. Alternatively, the operation of the information service 118 can be controlled and managed by implementing the controller 514 as a central processing unit that includes any suitable compatible microprocessor device for executing software instructions.

  In the embodiment of FIG. 5, the transport server 518 includes any effective means for communicating with and controlling one or more transport structures 210 (FIG. 2) according to the present invention. it can. Additional details regarding the implementation and use of the transport server 518 are further described below in connection with FIGS. 6A-6B. In the embodiment of FIG. 5, advertisement source (s) 540 may include one or more suitable entities that provide advertisement information for promotion via distribution system 110 (FIG. 1). For example, the advertisement source 540 may include various commercial companies, specific advertisers, or advertisement developers.

  In the embodiment of FIG. 5, content source (s) 542 may include one or more suitable entities that provide electronic content for promotion via distribution system 110. For example, the content source 542 can include various commercial companies, specific advertisers, or content producers. In the embodiment of FIG. 5, the advertisement server 538 provides one or more transport structures 210 (FIG. 1) with appropriate advertisement information and / or electronic content to provide to the target device user of the user device 122 (FIG. 1). Any effective means for identifying and tabulating by using the metadata from 2A) can be included. One embodiment of the advertisement server 538 is further described below in connection with FIG. Additional details regarding the implementation and use of the information service 118 are further described below in connection with FIGS. 6-8B.

  Referring now to FIG. 6A, a block diagram of one embodiment of the transport server 518 of FIG. 5 according to the present invention is shown. In the embodiment of FIG. 6A, the transport server 518 includes, but is not limited to, a central processing unit (CPU) 614, memory 618, display 638, and one or more input (s). / Output interface (I / O interface (s)) 640. The embodiment of FIG. 6A is shown for illustrative purposes, and in an alternative embodiment, components and configurations in addition to or in place of some of the components and configurations described in connection with the embodiment of FIG. 6A. Can be used to implement the transport server 518.

  In the embodiment of FIG. 6A, the operation of transport server 518 may be controlled and managed by implementing CPU 614 to preferably include any suitable compatible microprocessor device that executes software instructions. it can. The display 638 of FIG. 6A can include any effective type of display technology including a cathode ray tube monitor or liquid crystal display device with a screen suitable for displaying various information to the device user. In the embodiment of FIG. 6A, the I / O interface (s) 640 may include one or more inputs and / or outputs for the transport server 518 to receive and / or transmit any required type of information. An interface can be included. In the embodiment of FIG. 6A, various types of non-volatile such as, but not limited to, read only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), floppy disk, memory stick, compact disk, or hard disk. The transport server memory 618 can be implemented to include any combination of desired storage devices including a volatile memory.

  Referring now to FIG. 6B, a block diagram of one embodiment of the transport server memory 618 of FIG. 6A according to the present invention is shown. In an alternate embodiment, transport server memory 618 is implemented by utilizing components and configurations in addition to or in place of some of the components and configurations described in connection with the embodiment of FIG. 6B. Can do.

  In the embodiment of FIG. 6B, the transport server memory 618 can include a number of software programs and data disclosed and described below, but is not limited to the following. For example, the transport server memory 618 can include a server application 644 that preferably comprises program instructions that are executed by the CPU 614 to perform various functions and operations for the transport server 518. In general, the specific characteristics and functions of the server application will vary depending on factors such as the specific type and specific function of the corresponding transport server 518.

  In accordance with the present invention, the transport server 518 can utilize the TS manager 648 to manage and coordinate various functions for one or more transport structures 210 (FIG. 2A) according to the present invention. In some embodiments, registration that coordinates the registration procedure for registering device users of user devices 122 so that TS Manager 648 can participate in various authorized distribution services from distribution system 110 (FIG. 1A). Modules can be included. The TS database 652 may include any suitable information regarding the transport structure 210 that provides distribution services to various entities within the distribution system 110. In some embodiments, the TS manager 648 can continually update the respective transport structure information in the TS database 652 to reflect the current state of the transport structure 210 in the distribution system 110.

  In some embodiments, the transport server 518 can include an ad selector 656 and ad selection data 660 for performing an ad selection procedure on behalf of one or more device users and corresponding user devices 122. . In the embodiment of FIG. 6B, the metadata manager 664 or other suitable entity performs a metadata analysis / aggregation procedure on the metadata 216 from the transport structure 210 by utilizing any effective technique. can do. In some embodiments, the metadata analysis / aggregation procedure identifies various types and categories of aggregated metadata 668 during the advertisement selection procedure and makes it available to the advertisement selector 656.

  In some embodiments, the metadata manager 664 analyzes the metadata 216 collected from the user device 122 and the corresponding device user against some predetermined criteria to identify in the aggregated metadata 668. Targeting characteristics and parameters. For example, targeting characteristics may include, but are not limited to, selections from user metadata 222, device metadata 226, application metadata 230, advertisement metadata 234, and service metadata 238 (see FIG. 2D). Properties can be included. In the embodiment of FIG. 6B, miscellaneous information 672 can include any desired type of information or data for use by transport server 518.

  Referring now to FIG. 7, a block diagram of one embodiment of the advertisement server 538 of FIG. 5 according to the present invention is shown. In the embodiment of FIG. 7, the advertising server 538 includes, but is not limited to, a central processing unit (CPU) 714, a memory 718, a display 738, and one or more input / s. Output interface (I / O interface (s)) 740. The embodiment of FIG. 7 is shown for illustrative purposes, and in an alternative embodiment, components and configurations in addition to or in place of some of the components and configurations described in connection with the embodiment of FIG. Can be used to implement the advertisement server 538.

  In the embodiment of FIG. 7, the operation of advertising server 538 can be controlled and managed by implementing CPU 714 to include any suitable compatible microprocessor device that preferably executes software instructions. . The display 738 of FIG. 7 can include any effective type of display technology including a cathode ray tube monitor or liquid crystal display device with a screen suitable for displaying various information to the device user. In the embodiment of FIG. 7, the I / O interface (s) 740 has one or more input and / or output interfaces for the advertisement server 538 to receive and / or transmit any desired type of information. Can be included.

  In the embodiment of FIG. 7, various types of non-volatile such as, but not limited to, read only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), and floppy disk, memory stick, compact disk, or hard disk. The memory 718 can be implemented to include any combination of desired storage devices including a volatile memory. In the embodiment of FIG. 7, memory 718 includes, but is not limited to, server application 722, docking port 726, advertisement 730, and content 734.

  In the embodiment of FIG. 7, server application 722 may include program instructions, preferably executed by CPU 714, for performing various functions and operations of advertisement server 538. In general, the specific characteristics and functions of the server application 722 depend on factors such as the specific type and specific function of the corresponding advertisement server 538. In some embodiments, the server application 722 analyzes advertisement selections from the user device 122, transport server 518, or other suitable entity to identify the appropriate advertisement, and the user device 122 (FIG. 1) It can be provided to the target device user.

  In the embodiment of FIG. 7, the docking port 726 allows the ad server 538 to communicate with one or more transport structures 210 (FIG. 2) to transfer advertisements 730, content 734, or advertisement selection information. Any effective interface means can be included. In the embodiment of FIG. 7, advertisement 730 includes advertisement information provided to advertisement server 538 from any suitable entity, such as advertisement source 540 (FIG. 5). Similarly, in the embodiment of FIG. 7, content 734 includes electronic content provided to ad server 538 from any suitable entity, such as content source 542 (FIG. 5).

  Referring now to FIGS. 8A-8B, a flow diagram of method steps for performing a morphing procedure according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown. The flow diagram of FIG. 8 is shown for illustrative purposes, and in alternative embodiments, the present invention may utilize steps and orders other than those described in connection with the embodiment of FIG.

  In step 812 of FIG. 8A, the transport entity 210 can be initially created by the source entity utilizing any effective generation technique. In step 816, the transport structure 210 can be programmed with specific TS instructions 214 in any effective manner. For example, in some embodiments, the TS manager 648 of the transport server 518 provides binding instructions 260, task instructions 264, navigation instructions 268, and timing instructions 272 to effectively control the transport structure 210. Can do.

  In step 820, transport server 518 or other suitable entity deploys transport structure 210 within information distribution system 110. For example, in some embodiments, one or more user devices 122 can inherently incorporate transport structure 518. Alternatively, the transport structure 210 can be transmitted via the information delivery system 110 to one or more user devices 122 or other designated entities. For example, in some embodiments, the transport structure 210 can be transmitted to an appropriate user device 122 (or other target destination) while coupled to a corresponding advertisement or other type of electronic information. .

  In step 824, the TS instruction 214 of the transport structure 210 is read to determine the appropriate function of the transport structure 210. Thereafter, the processing of FIG. 8A proceeds to step 828 of FIG. 8B through the connection character “A”. In step 828 of FIG. 8B, the transport structure 210 automatically binds to the appropriate host entity according to the TS instructions 214 already created in step 816 above. A host entity can include, but is not limited to, a user device 122, a device application 422, or a service program 450.

  In step 832, transport structure 210 collects and sends appropriate metadata 216 for the host entity to transport server 518 (or other metadata destination) to more accurately target future advertisements. To do. In step 836, transport structure 210 determines whether a morphing procedure is currently required by TS instruction 214. If no morphing procedure is currently required, the transport structure 210 continues to collect and send the appropriate metadata 216 for the host entity as described in step 832.

  On the other hand, if the transport structure 210 determines that a morphing procedure is currently required by the TS command 214, then in step 840, the transport structure 210 sets the new host entity as specified by the TS command 214. Rejoin automatically and dynamically. Thereafter, the transport structure 210 advantageously collects and transmits the appropriate metadata 216 for this new host entity in order to more accurately target future advertisements. Thus, at least for the reasons described above, the present invention provides an improved system and method for utilizing a morphing procedure in an information distribution network.

  The present invention has been described above with reference to several embodiments. Other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of this disclosure. For example, the present invention can be readily implemented using several configurations and techniques other than those described in the specific embodiments above. Also, the present invention can be effectively used with systems other than those described above. Accordingly, these and other variations to the described embodiments are intended to be covered by the present invention and are limited only by the scope of the appended claims.

Claims (23)

A system for realizing an information distribution network,
An information service configured to provide an information distribution service via the information distribution network;
A user device used by a device user to communicate with the information service to receive the information distribution service;
A transport structure for collecting metadata for targeting selected information from the information service to the device user through the user device;
And the transport structure implements a morphing procedure that sequentially couples to a plurality of host entities in order to collect the metadata.
A system characterized by that. The selected information includes advertising information and electronic content;
The system according to claim 1. A transport server for coordinating the operation of the transport structure by providing transport structure instructions to the transport structure;
The system according to claim 1. The transport structure instructions include a join instruction, a task instruction, a navigation instruction, and a timing instruction;
The system according to claim 3. The host entity includes a device application of the user device;
The system according to claim 1. The host entity includes a service associated with the user equipment;
The system according to claim 1. The host entity includes the user equipment;
The system according to claim 1. The host entity includes one or more advertisements;
The system according to claim 1. The metadata includes user metadata, device metadata, application metadata, advertisement metadata, and service metadata.
The system according to claim 1. The transport server analyzes the metadata to identify relevant advertisements for transmission to the device user;
The system according to claim 3. The transport server controls the transport structure by programming binding instructions, task instructions, navigation instructions, and timing instructions in the transport structure;
The system according to claim 3. The transport structure is deployed in the information distribution network by being built into the user device or by being transmitted to the user device while coupled to a corresponding advertisement.
The system according to claim 11. The transport structure automatically couples to a first host entity according to the transport structure instruction, the transport structure relating to the first host entity for more accurately targeting future advertisements; Collecting the metadata and sending it to the transport server;
13. The system according to claim 12, wherein: The transport structure determines whether a morphing procedure is currently required by the transport structure instruction;
The system of claim 13. The transport structure performs the morphing procedure as specified in the transport structure instruction and automatically rejoins a second host entity, after which the transport structure Collecting and sending the metadata about the second host entity to more accurately target
The system according to claim 14. Targeting the selected information to the device user by matching aspects of the selected information to targeting characteristics from the metadata;
The system according to claim 1. The transport structure is controlled by a transport structure software module executed by a processor of the user equipment;
The system according to claim 1. A user device in an information distribution network,
A device application used to communicate with the information service so that a device user can receive the information delivery service;
A transport structure for collecting metadata for targeting selected information from the information service to the device user through the user device;
And the transport structure implements a morphing procedure that sequentially couples to a plurality of host entities in order to collect the metadata.
The user apparatus characterized by the above-mentioned. The selected information includes advertising information and electronic content;
The user device according to claim 18. The transport structure instructions include a join instruction, a task instruction, a navigation instruction, and a timing instruction;
The user device according to claim 18. The host entity includes a service associated with the user equipment;
The user device according to claim 18. The host entity includes the user equipment;
The user device according to claim 18. The host entity includes one or more advertisements;
The user device according to claim 18.

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